Yonder Sails A Ship

by Mike Wilson

As the name implies, this song tries to capture a nautical feel. It's a folk-like arrangement using traditional acoustic instruments (though the accordion is sampled). Metaphorically, it speaks of life with all its ups and downs, restlessness, and distraction, with the safety of the lighthouse just in the offing. The lyrics leave the scenario unresolved so you can take it where you like.

This is a catchy tune that kinda sticks with you and is easy to learn and sing expressively. Crescendos and decrescendos rise and fall naturally with the rising and falling of the melody line... a bit like ocean waves if you will. So you'll want to take advantage of that.

Some of the fun of this song is in part 2 and part 3. Harmonies in a minor key like this always seem to work well, and they're downright gratifying to sing. Verse three uses "oohs" and echoes of the melody line to create some additional interest.

To help you teach parts 2 and 3, we have isolated them and put them online. There is also a unison full performance version online that you can use if you find the full 3-part version too daunting. (See details on page 80.)

We enjoyed singing this for you. We hope you enjoy it as well.

Text is taken from Music K-8 magazine.